Groups hold children's program in Syracuse to urge them to make positive choices

Syracuse community organizations treated children to food, music and fun Saturday to encourage them to make positive decisions for a successful future.

Mercy Works, the Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation and other community groups hosted Street Smarts Saturday at the Spirit of Jubilee Park to teach children lessons about their education, friends and future.

“It’s great to see how excited the kids get for school,” said Ryann Crofoot, a Street Smarts volunteer.

Volunteer John Ginty played three lively characters — “Coach Roach Coach,” “Dr. Fun Future” and “Philip Oppenheimer” ( whom Ginty called a “super nerd”). These characters’ messages included the importance of education, wisdom and smart decision-making.

Children were treated to snow cones, popcorn and hot dogs and got to play in two bounce houses. There were also giveaways for the kids.

Parents had the opportunity to sign their children up for a Street Smarts day camp that will teach children about computers and other technology.

“Every day there is more emphasis on technology,” said Malcolm Walters, a Street Smarts instructor. By acquiring these skills earlier, “it’ll become easy by the time they reach high school.”

The camp will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Thursday this week at the Vision Center, 1221 S. Salina St. Space is limited, but people interested in the camp can call Gina Rivers, program director of Mercy Works, at 435-6934.